By Grace Holloway · October 26, 2026
Cabinets are usually the biggest single cost, often a third of the budget. Counters, appliances and labor make up most of the rest.
The items people forget are lighting, the electrical work to support it, and what is behind the walls. Older Charlotte homes often need new circuits to meet code once a kitchen is opened up.
Hold back about ten percent of the budget as a contingency. On most of our projects it is never touched, but it turns a surprise into a decision instead of a crisis.
Finally, price every selection before demolition. A fixed price only works when every tile, handle and faucet is chosen first.
